Tensions have erupted in Ashaiman as frustrated youth of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) express their outrage over what they describe as neglect in President John Mahama’s appointments.

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On Thursday, a group of angry party supporters stormed the office of the constituency chairman, Shaddad Umar Jallo, setting tires ablaze and shattering glass doors in a dramatic protest.

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Reports indicate that the aggrieved youth had initially planned to march against President Mahama and block traffic on the Accra-Tema Motorway. However, local party leaders intervened to prevent further escalation.

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Presiding Member of the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly, Godwin Twumasi, warned that the discontent could worsen if the party leadership fails to address their grievances.

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“We have become a laughing stock. Our friends and neighbours in the NPP keep questioning our motivation for supporting the NDC when we are constantly left out during appointments,” he lamented.

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He further noted that the only significant political recognition Ashaiman has received so far is Alfred Kwame Agbeshie’s role as the 2nd Majority Leader in Parliament.

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Twumasi attributed the growing frustration to unfulfilled campaign promises.

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“President Mahama promised to appoint someone from Ashaiman and to fix our deplorable road network. Until these promises are fulfilled, we don’t know how to convince the masses for 2028,” he stressed.

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He clarified that the demand for an appointment does not necessarily mean their MP should be selected. “Anyone competent enough in any role will help settle this,” he added.

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As tensions mount, 2nd Deputy Constituency Youth Organizer, Regina Agbagba, called on President Mahama to act swiftly before the situation spirals out of control.

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“The youth have made it clear that our MP, Ernest Norgbey, has worked tirelessly, helping the NDC secure over 69,000 votes in the 2024 elections.

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"Apart from President Mahama, Sammy Gyamfi, Ato Forson, Kwame Agbodza, Asiedu Nketia, and others made the same promise,” she recounted.

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She questioned Ashaiman’s role in the party, stating, “Are we only good for demonstrations? Is that all we can do?

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"The success the party attained here was by sweat and blood, with sleepless nights and lives put on the line. Ashaiman deserves better,” she cried.

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Deputy Women’s Organizer, Beatrice Esinam Agbeko Teye, acknowledged the efforts of party executives in preventing a more severe crisis.

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“We can only ask our constituents to remain calm. They want Ashaiman’s contribution to be recognised, and we trust in the president’s decision,” she said.

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Meanwhile, Constituency Organizer Mark Apetor noted that beyond political appointments, the youth are also demanding employment opportunities, particularly in local industries.

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Despite interventions by party leaders, concerns persist that frustrations could escalate if their demands are not met soon.

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The police have since stepped in to maintain order in the area.

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